Healthy Fast Food

Fast-food restaurants are widely known and characterized both by food which is supplied quickly after purchased, and by minimal service. Often this food is referred to as fast food. In response to increasing backlash against “fast food”, the industry has been trying to move the public away from that term over the past ten to fifteen years, shifting to the term quick service restaurant (QSR for short). Despite the industry’s efforts, consumers continue to refer to them as “fast-food restaurants”

The food in these restaurants is often cooked in bulk in advance and kept cold, or reheated to order meaning has a high content of fat. Many fast-food restaurants are part of restaurant chains or franchise operations, and standardized foodstuffs are shipped to each restaurant from central locations. There are also simpler fast-food outlets, such as stands or kiosks, which may or may not provide shelter or chairs for customers.

While fast food restaurants may not be the healthiest choice when dieting, most people find themselves eating their once in awhile. So how can we make the best choices when we are in the mode or are in a rush for fast foods? The good news is restaurants are finally making adjustments in their menus making it easy to eat healthy while out.

America is widely known as the “fast food nation” which is not surprising as one out of four Americans eats out everyday. With huge food chains like McDonalds, Wendy’s, etc. making it convenient and easy to grab a quick meal. Not only is it convenient but its most of the time the cheapest option.

Now why is fast food so bad for us when it is so convenient and cheap for the amount we receive? And it’s sad to say that the problem is in the portions.

You might also want to learn about fat in take in some of these fast foods that makes it obvious why Americans are overweight leading to having more health problems. So what does the governement recommended for in take of fats in fast food.

Fast food chains offer two to three times more food than we actually need at one sitting making fat storage every easy.

Healthy fast food choices include:

• Grilled chicken or fish sandwich
• Whole wheat rolls
• Fruit or fruit and yogurt
• Baked potato (with vegetables instead of cheese, butter or sour cream)
• Salad with dressing on the side or fat free salad dressing
• Single hamburger (regular or children’s size)
• Low fat deli sandwiches on wheat bread or on pita bread
• Wraps on whole wheat tortillas (without dressing)
• Fat free / low fat milk or water

Conclusion
For many, the challenges that the healthy food and overall weight loss market present appear to be tremendous - with pending government restrictions, regulations and continually evolving definitions. But as with every great challenge there is an even greater opportunity hidden. Courage to paint outside the lines will be the key in the future. So, be bold: don’t compete with competitors but only seek to outdo yourself. Look at the emerging trends outside your category’s parameters. Remember that your colleagues, family, friends and neighbors are also consumers and listen carefully to the words they use when they speak about healthy food and well-being. And the inspiration to evolve the healthy food debate forward will come.